D22/100
Rosebud Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 13,560 residents · South Dakota
What's In Rosebud's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: December 30, 2023 – December 4, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: November 11, 2023 – December 4, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: November 1, 2022 – December 12, 2022Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
ST. FRANCIS
Population Served
2,450
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
084690020
SICANGU MNI WICONI RURAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
5,610
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
084690516
ROSEBUD RURAL WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
5,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
084690528
Frequently Asked Questions About Rosebud Water
Is Rosebud tap water safe to drink?
Rosebud, South Dakota tap water receives a grade of D (22/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 200 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Rosebud's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Rosebud's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Rosebud have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rosebud has 200 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, MR. 17 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rosebud?
Rosebud water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Rosebud's tap water come from?
Rosebud's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ST. FRANCIS and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 13,560 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Rosebud's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Rosebud's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Rosebud's water compare to other cities in South Dakota?
Rosebud's water quality score of 22/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our South Dakota state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Rosebud's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rosebud's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (ST. FRANCIS) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.